Studies have found that being one with nature helps us take our minds off the daily hassles. Here are some of the best destinations in Malaysia to rewind and recharge yourself, as you keep in touch with nature.
Kinabalu National Park
Located in Sabah, the Kinabalu National Park covers no less than 750 square kilometers. The park was declared a National Park in 1964, and was designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2000. It is popular for Mount Kinabalu, which is the tallest mountain in Borneo, and one of the tallest in the whole of Southeast Asia. In fact, at the top of Mount Kinabalu is the only via ferrata or climbing paths in Asia. Rafflesia, the largest flower in the world can also be found along the trail as you make your way up the Kinabalu Park. Sunsets, birds, orangutans, and other species of plants and animals are also not to be missed.
Mulu National Park
Situated in Sarawak, the Mulu National Park is haven for over 1,500 species of plants, fungi, birds and animals, such as rhododendrons, pheasants, hornbills, bats, and so on. As such, it was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2000. This park is familiar for Mount Mulu, the second highest mountain in Sarawak, and Mulu Caves, the largest and most spectacular cave in the whole world. If you love being awed by nature, riding the long boat along the Melinau river in the mossy forest is a must.
Taman Negara
The oldest tropical rainforest in the world, Taman Negara encompasses of three states: Pahang, Kelantan, and Terengganu. Overall, the park covers 4,343km2 of Malaysia's land area, with the largest area being in Pahang. It is home to many endangered species such as the Asian elephant, tigers, leopards and rhinoceros. Experience life in the park as you visit the Orang Asli or aborigines settlements, or choose to be adventurous as you explore waterfalls, canopy walks, caves, and wildlife hides are also popular spots.
Cameron Highlands
Taking a step back from the warm and humid weather, be exhilarated by the coolness of Cameron Highlands. First developed by the British in the 1920s, many crops that require colder climates are grown here and distributed across the couuntry. Take a walk through the friendly village, and locals would proudly direct you to the butterfly, honey bees, and strawberry farms. Don't miss the tea plantations that gives the hills a picture-perfect touch as well.
Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary
Also known as Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, this forest reserve is located in Sabah. It is one of the four orangutan sanctuaries in the world, being the largest among them. Much of it remains as a virgin forest, free from logging sites, plantations, and illegal hunting, allowing the orangutans to roam freely without fear. View them up close, and don't forget try to look out for some of the over 200 species of birds and variety of wild plants available as well!
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Published in eye glamour (vol.22) under the Lifestyle section in May 2012.
